Tax saving options under section 80C: Features explained

1. Equity linked savings scheme (ELSS)
Tax benefit: Investment is deductible, gains tax free till Rs 1 lakh.
Returns: Market linked
Lock in period: 3 years

2. Public Provident Fund (PPF)
Tax benefit: Investment and interest are tax free
Returns: 7.9% for Jan-March quarter
Lock in period: 15 years from first investment. Partial withdrawals after 5 years

3. 5-year bank fixed deposit
Tax benefit: Investment deductible, interest fully taxable
Returns: 6-7.75%
Lock in period: 5 years

Also read: Financial planning: 7 money steps new earners must take

4. Unit-linked insurance plan (Ulips)
Tax benefit: Investment and maturity amount is tax-free
Returns: Market linked
Lock in period: 5 years

5. Traditional insurance policy
Tax benefit: Premium and maturity amount is tax free
Returns: 4.5-5% for 20-yr plan
Lock in Till policy matures. Can be closed after 3 years. Before that, all the premiums paid are forfeited